Remodeled and ready: St. Armands gallery hosts Longboat chamber

A business networking event on Aug. 28 boasted a striking backdrop. 

"Everything is so beautiful," said attendee Nancy Taussig of Wright Accounting as she browsed the works inside Wyland Gallery.

During Off the Clock Networking at Wyland Gallery, the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce invited its members to network and connect in the gallery on St. Armands Circle.

Attendees had the chance to browse the works of art, including those by artist Robert Wyland, who is known for his outdoor murals of whales and other sea life. 

The event allowed the gallery to showcase its recently renovated space, which gallery owner Guy Vincent called the "perfect" platform for the event.

Vincent said the damage during Hurricane Helene provided the first opportunity for the gallery to be fully renovated after 27 years. 

The black floor, pedestals and ceiling were replaced with lighter-colored material, and new features. Vincent says after the renovation proved popular, it was performed in the Key West location he also owns. 

Ellen Thomas, the Chamber Event Coordinator, said the organization has been looking to make its events interesting for its members, and "maybe a little different" from what it has done in the past. 

"It's such a creative environment and such a great vibe, and I saw smiles on most people's faces," she said, noting guests also had the chance to learn about the art. "I think it was really an added element, and I think Guy went out of his way to make it that way."